THE toothbus parked up in Barton yesterday to encourage dentist-shy residents to get their teeth checked out.

The mobile bus saw about eight patients yesterday at Barton Community Centre, and it will be there until tomorrow between 9am and about 4.20pm, before moving on to the Roundabout Centre, Waynflete Road, on Thursday, where free advice will be available until Saturday.

Varinder Singh Bassi said: “Everyone we have seen we have pretty much referred and the most common conditions are gum disease and tooth decay.”

Patients who visit the bus receive a letter with details of their consultation, information about any treatment required, and a list of local dental practices.

People who have not seen a dentist for two years or longer are eligible to be seen at the bus.